Viking Haithabu Bag handles Model 11

• Length: 19 cm
• Width: 2 cm
• Thickness: 6 mm
• Material: Acacia treated with wax

The largest number of bag slats originates from the Hedeby harbor, where at least fourteen similar artifacts have been discovered. Their lengths range from 18.1 to 49.6 cm, thickness 0.7–1.3 cm, and width in the central part 2.9–5.2 cm. The diameter of the holes at the ends varies from 0.7 to 1 cm.

Ash and maple were among the materials used for their production. At least two slats form a pair. Some finds include curved horn slats with holes at the ends, possibly belonging to the same type of objects (Schietzel 2014: 265; Ulbricht 1978: Ill. 42.1-2). Overall, the Hedeby discoveries are dated to the 9th–11th centuries.

Due to the lack of fully preserved bags, modern reconstructions vary greatly, using fabric or leather. Typically, shorter and simplified slats up to 30 cm are used, while slats over 40 cm are rarely seen in reconstructions.

Bags with slats are often decorated with embroidery and used for carrying personal items like mobile phones, wallets, bowls, spoons, and similar belongings. In modern reenactment, slat bags primarily serve as fashionable accessories, allowing the owner to show off at festivals.